This week was a week of firsts: the first book in a new genre, the first page of a new kind of notebook, the first library card that actually connects you to other readers and a first bite of a gluten-free Oreo. Yum. Tell me: What firsts did you have this week?

What I'm Reading:

I read two drastically different books, one certainly more suited for me than the other, but something I still needed to read. 

Johnny Got His Gun by Dalton Trumbo

I never would have picked up Johnny Got His Gun by Dalton Trumbo. And I never would have continued reading after the introduction. But I did. Why? Because my Dad told me to. =) Honestly, this was a highly emotional, incredibly difficult book to read. Breaking all the rules of conventional writing and punctuation, this book left me breathless in more ways than one. A highly charged book about the devastating effects of war, Trumbo embodies the body and mind of a disfigured soldier whose entire life was destroyed in battle. You see him. Feel what he feels. Loves what he loves. Fears what he fears. And that was slightly terrifying. The bottom line? While it was a difficult read, this book made me appreciate everything I take for granted, including my freedom. 

Heating & Cooling: 52 Micro-Memoirs by Beth Ann Fennelly

I read another book that was more my style: Heating & Cooling: 52 Micro-Memoirs by Beth Ann Fennelly. I had no idea this genre even existed, but I adored these micro-memoirs. Some were funny, some were deep, some were heartfelt and some were whimsical, but Fennelly brought her heart to every single page. I loved these tiny glimpses into her life and she sparked me to think of my own life as a series of micro-moments worth celebrating, too.

What I'm Writing:

I thought I knew just about all the ways I could show up in my notebook: memories, lists, creative prompts, therapy, letters and more. But this week, I learned one more: The One Word Journal. One word. Really! Here’s how it works: Each night, pick a word that captures the spirit of your day. Write it down. Then, if you have time, add in some stickers, doodles or sketches that showcase your word in action from the day. 

That’s it! It’s definitely something I’m going to start trying in my weekly calendar. Would you try a one-word journal?

What I'm Learning:

Oh, boy. Are you ready for this? I AM LEARNING HOW TO CREATE A SUBSCRIPTION BOX full of bookish fun! That’s right. I’m creating a monthly subscription box to help you cultivate a life you love one book and one page at a time. If you’d like to be the first to know when it opens, you can join the waiting list here! I don’t think I’ve even been this excited for a bookish project before!

What I'm Loving:

The Internet was a treasure-trove of goodness this week. Look at what I’ve found!

There you have it! I hope this inspires you to make space for more reading and writing in your own life. What are the highlights from your literate life this week?